Hale’s an example to follow

IRELAND Under-21 striker Ronan Hale feels he can be a trailblazer for League of Ireland wannabes.

The Derry striker, on loan from Birmingham City, notched his second goal at this level in Thursday’s Euro qualifier against Israel.

Hale made an immediate impact by scoring within just five minutes of being sprung from the bench.

All of the 20-year-old’s predatory instincts were in full flow when he latched on to a poor clearance by goalkeeper Assaf Tzur before executing a powerful finish.

Although Israel scored twice in the last 13 minutes to win 3-1 and Ireland cannot now qualify, at least Hale is eligible for the next campaign.

He’s pushing for a start in Tuesday’s concluding qualifier away to Germany and will finish his loan spell with the Candystripes by playing their final three games.

Then it’s back to Birmingham next month to try make an impact in the final season of his contract.

Hale believes his loan spell has improved his all-round game and credits his season in the Premier Division as reason for his international breakthrough.

“I think playing for Derry got me some international recognition,” said the Belfast-born forward, whose older brother Rory has also been part of Noel King’s panel.

He added: “There’s a few League of Ireland players in the squad and I can see more of them coming in.

“I just want to get three wins with Derry before returning to Birmingham.

“I’ll start back with the Under-23s but they’ll likely send me out on another loan move.”

King believes Hale – who was denied a second goal by a harsh handball decision – has the package to get even better.

He said: “Ronan has a great eye for goal. Once he gets a chance like the one against Israel, he usually sticks them away.”